Why Travel To Lisbon in June With Your Family

Of all of the months to visit Lisbon, one seems to stand out as the best for families to visit. The summer is prime family travel time so while you may think of July and August as the best times to visit Portugal, it’s not. Find out why you should visit Lisbon in June with your family.

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Expense

The popularity of summer travel causes prices to increase greatly during that time of year. For most families, it’s the best time of year to travel because the kids are out of school and of course, the weather is incredible.

With that increased demand for flights, accommodations and limited supply comes the increased prices.

What most seasoned travelers look for is shoulder season. That is the time nearest to the popular times to visit (because let’s face it, the popular times to visit are popular for a reason) but not quite in that time frame.

For family travel and travel to Lisbon in particular, a great example of that is the month of June. While the peak summer travel months of July and August bring about peak costs, the month of June is a nice alternative.

Prices are often quite reasonable with a lot of the summer benefits. In combination with booking things early (as far as 8 to 10 months in advance), there are a lot of deals to be had for the family.

We found great deals on our accommodations and our flight on our family’s recent trip to Lisbon in June of 2023. This was amid inflated travel costs everywhere, but especially in Europe. By purchasing our flight and booking our apartment early and visiting in June we saved well over a thousand dollars and had an awesome vacation!

Crowds

Family travel is primarily restricted to just a few months in the summer when the kids are out of school. While many American schools typically let out for summer break in June, many European schools don’t let out until July. For families that can take advantage of this early release, it’s a perfect time to plan a trip to Lisbon.

Our family found that throughout our trip, we never felt overcrowded or dealt with long lines anywhere we went in Lisbon. This can have a massive impact on your family’s experience when traveling.

Not only are kids notoriously impatient and not fans of standing in line and waiting, but overwhelming crowds likely affect the local’s attitudes toward tourists.

Visiting Lisbon in June ensures that you beat the crowds and get to enjoy the city the way it was meant to be. Even though we have a habit of pre-ordering all of our tickets online, we didn’t need to on our visit. The only attraction that had a moderately long line (that moved fast) was the Jeronimos Monastery.

Weather

One of the best things about Lisbon is the spectacular weather. The city gets a lot of sunshine annually so no matter when you visit in June, you’ll likely have several sunny days.

As much as sunshine is welcomed on a vacation, too much can ruin it. Even though the temperatures in Lisbon are usually moderate, July and August can see an increase in uncomfortably hot weather.

The month of June though, provides nice sunshine along with moderately warm temperatures. It’s warm enough during the day that you’ll enjoy being outside and isn’t too cool at night. Visiting in June ensures that you get the best parts of summer weather in Lisbon.

June is also the third driest month when it comes to rainfall (just after July and August). This means that during your stay you’re not likely going to have it ruined by excessive rain.

What To Do In Lisbon, Portugal In June

Wander Through Lisbon’s Unique Neighborhoods

Lisbon is a city of diverse and charming neighborhoods, each offering its own unique flavor of culture, history, and modern-day vibrancy. As you explore the city, you’ll discover distinct districts that make Lisbon so special.

• Alfama: Wander through the labyrinth of Alfama’s narrow, winding streets that have preserved the traditional soul of Lisbon. This historic neighborhood offers a step back in time, with colorful buildings, quaint shops, and views over the Tagus River. Families will enjoy its charm, with hidden courtyards and traditional Fado music filling the air.
• Baixa: Admire the grand architecture of Baixa, Lisbon’s downtown area, with its neoclassical squares, wide boulevards, and elegant buildings. It’s the perfect place to soak in Lisbon’s history and enjoy its café culture. The area is home to many iconic landmarks, including Praça do Comércio and the Santa Justa Elevator.
• Chiado: For families who enjoy shopping and dining, Chiado offers a delightful mix of boutique shops, stylish cafés, and theaters. It’s a vibrant neighborhood where tradition and modernity meet, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the atmosphere.
• LX Factory: A must-visit for those seeking art, culture, and creativity, LX Factory is a former industrial complex transformed into a lively hub filled with galleries, street art, trendy restaurants, and shops. It’s a great place to wander, grab a bite to eat, and discover local creative talent.

The Practicality of Using Public Transportation

To truly experience all these neighborhoods, you’ll need an efficient and affordable way to navigate the city. Lisbon’s public transportation system is a lifesaver for families exploring the city. The metro, buses, and trams offer an easy way to move between neighborhoods, especially if you’re looking to cover more ground without tiring out the kids. The Lisbon Metro is fast, affordable, and covers many of the city’s key attractions, making it a practical choice for getting around. It’s what we used exclusively to get around Lisbon during our trip and we never got lost!

Using an app like Google Maps can make navigating Lisbon even easier. The app integrates seamlessly with the metro schedules, showing real-time routes and transit information. Whether you’re hopping on a tram in Baixa or taking the metro to Alfama, Google Maps helps you find the quickest and most efficient way to your next destination. It even offers walking directions for those times when you’d like to explore the city on foot.

Stay Connected with an eSIM

To make your navigation even more seamless, it’s essential to stay connected while you’re out and about. Purchasing an eSIM for your trip is a practical solution to ensure that you have data access throughout your time in Lisbon. An eSIM eliminates the need for physical SIM cards and lets you connect right away upon arrival. For travelers heading to Lisbon, Simsolo offers great options with reliable coverage across the city. With the best esim for Portugal, you’ll have all the data you need to access maps, translation tools, and more as you navigate the city’s public transportation system and explore its unique neighborhoods.

By using public transportation and an eSIM, you’ll be able to easily explore Lisbon’s vibrant neighborhoods with minimal hassle, leaving you more time to enjoy the sights and experiences that make the city so special.

Spend a Day at the Beach

Lisbon offers more than just vibrant city life—its nearby beaches provide the perfect family getaway. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or a bit of adventure, the beaches near Lisbon are easily accessible and ideal for a day by the sea.

• Cascais: Just a 30-40 minute train ride from Lisbon, Cascais is a charming seaside town with calm waters, making it great for families with young children. The beaches, like Praia da Conceição, feature golden sand and are perfect for a relaxing day of swimming and picnicking. You can also explore the town’s quaint streets and enjoy seafood at one of its many waterfront cafés.
• Costa da Caparica: For a livelier beach experience, head to Costa da Caparica, just across the river from Lisbon. The beach offers a lively atmosphere with beach cafés, restaurants, and plenty of water sports options, such as surfing and bodyboarding. It’s a great spot for families seeking both relaxation and fun.

Both beaches are easily accessible from Lisbon, with Cascais reachable by a short train ride and Costa da Caparica accessible via a ferry or bus. These beaches offer a refreshing escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, perfect for a day of family fun.

Visit Lisbon’s Iconic Sights

June is the perfect time to explore Lisbon’s iconic landmarks, as the city is bathed in sunshine and vibrant energy. From historic monuments to stunning viewpoints, there’s something for every family to enjoy.

• Belém Tower: Located along the Tagus River, Belém Tower is a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a glimpse into Lisbon’s maritime history. Families can explore its impressive architecture and climb to the top for panoramic views of the river and city.
• Jerónimos Monastery: Just a short walk from Belém Tower, the Jerónimos Monastery is a masterpiece of Manueline architecture. Its intricate details and peaceful cloisters make it a must-visit for history and culture lovers.
• São Jorge Castle: Perched atop a hill, São Jorge Castle provides stunning views of the city’s skyline. Explore its ancient walls, enjoy the scenic gardens, and take in the breathtaking sights of Lisbon from one of its many observation points.
• The Elevador de Santa Justa: For a unique perspective of Lisbon, take a ride on the Santa Justa Elevator, a historic lift that connects the Baixa district to the Chiado area. The top offers incredible views of the city’s rooftops and surrounding hills.

In June, Lisbon’s iconic sights are even more inviting, with pleasant weather and fewer crowds. These landmarks provide the perfect way to experience the city’s rich history and stunning views.

Discover Kid-Friendly Fun

Lisbon is a fantastic city for families, with plenty of activities that both kids and parents can enjoy. In June, the city’s warm weather makes outdoor adventures even more enjoyable. Here are some top kid-friendly fun spots to explore:

• Lisbon Oceanarium: Located in the Parque das Nações, the Lisbon Oceanarium is one of the largest aquariums in Europe. Kids can marvel at the diverse marine life, from sharks and stingrays to colorful fish and penguins. It’s an educational and exciting experience for children of all ages.
• Eduardo VII Park: For some outdoor fun, head to Eduardo VII Park. This expansive green space offers plenty of room for kids to run around, enjoy a picnic, or even take a ride on the park’s playground equipment. The park also features beautiful gardens and stunning views of the city.
• Lisbon Zoo: If your kids love animals, the Lisbon Zoo is a must-visit. It’s home to over 2,000 animals, including exotic species like tigers, giraffes, and elephants. The zoo offers interactive exhibits and animal shows that will keep the little ones entertained for hours.
• Pavilhão do Conhecimento: A science and technology museum with hands-on exhibits, Pavilhão do Conhecimento is perfect for curious minds. Kids can engage with interactive displays, explore the world of science through play, and even participate in workshops designed to spark creativity and learning.

Lisbon offers a wide variety of kid-friendly fun in June, combining outdoor activities with exciting cultural experiences. These spots will ensure your family has a memorable, fun-filled time in the city!

Enjoy the Outdoors

With June’s pleasant weather, Lisbon is the perfect destination for outdoor activities. The city’s scenic parks, riverside views, and outdoor attractions offer a great way for families to soak up the sun while enjoying the fresh air. Here are some top outdoor experiences to enjoy in Lisbon:

• Miradouro da Senhora do Monte: For stunning panoramic views of Lisbon, visit the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte viewpoint. It’s a fantastic spot for a family photo op and to take in the beauty of the city’s iconic red rooftops, hills, and the Tagus River in the distance.
• Parque das Nações: This modern park by the river is perfect for a family day out. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, rent bikes or scooters to explore, or stop by one of the many cafés. The park also has playgrounds for kids and open spaces where families can relax.
• Belem Riverside Walk: The Belem Riverside Walk offers a peaceful route along the river, with beautiful views of the water, historical monuments, and the iconic Belém Tower. It’s a lovely area for a family walk, and there are plenty of benches where you can stop and enjoy the surroundings.
• Bairro Alto Gardens: Hidden in the heart of the city, the Bairro Alto Gardens is a peaceful oasis where families can relax among the greenery. It’s a great place to escape the hustle and bustle, with plenty of space for kids to run and explore.

Lisbon’s outdoor spaces offer the perfect way to enjoy nature, get some fresh air, and experience the city’s beauty in June. Whether you’re strolling along the river, enjoying a viewpoint, or simply relaxing in the park, there’s plenty to see and do outside.

ENJOY LISBON IN JUNE WITH YOUR FAMILY

Lisbon is a fabulous city to visit with your family and June is the best month to do it in. I’m sure that you’ll love your experience in this amazing city. Before you go, make sure you know what to expect and what to pack. Check out our handy packing list for your visit to Lisbon as well as our comprehensive planning guide. Safe travels!